Passover is one of the most important celebrations in the history of the human race. It refers to the event when the Lord passed over the homes of the Israelites while putting to death the firstborn of the Egyptians (Ex 12:12, 29-30). In this way, the Israelites were freed from hundreds of years of slavery.

Jesus celebrated the "Last Supper" on the occasion of the Passover. He said: "I have greatly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer" (Lk 22:15). He commanded us to do the new Passover of the Last Supper in remembrance of Him (Lk 22:19). After Pentecost, the Spirit led the early Church to devote itself to celebrating the new Passover (Acts 2:42). They called it the "breaking of the bread." For two thousand years the Passover, Last Supper, Mass, Eucharist, has been the center of Christian life.

Are you desiring to celebrate the Passover as Jesus greatly desires to celebrate it with you? (Lk 22:15) Is Mass the center of your life? Do you live to celebrate the Eucharist? Have you followed the Spirit's lead in devoting yourself to the breaking of the bread? (Acts 2:42) Ask for the grace to love Jesus in the Eucharist with all your heart.

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 5, 2009

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